Artwork

A Puff of Steam

A Puff of Steam, by L. Birge Harrison, oil, 1910
A Puff of Steam, by L. Birge Harrison, oil, 1910

A Puff of Steam is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist L. Birge Harrison. It dates from 1910 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

About this work

Overview

A Puff of Steam is a 1910 oil painting by American artist Lovell Birge Harrison, known for his work in the Tonalist style. The painting is part of the Museum of Fine Arts Houston collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene mountain town with a body of water in the foreground, shrouded in mist. A church steeple rises above the rooftops, and a puff of steam adds to the tranquil atmosphere, creating a sense of peacefulness.

Technique & Style

Harrison's use of soft, muted colors and subtle brushstrokes creates a dreamy atmosphere, drawing the viewer into the scene. The water in the foreground reflects the soft light, adding depth and dimensionality to the composition.

Soleil couchant à Ivry
Soleil couchant à Ivry, Armand Guillaumin

Artist & collection

Portrait of L. Birge Harrison

Artist

L. Birge Harrison

Lovell Birge Harrison (October 28, 1854, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – 1929) was an American genre and landscape painter, teacher, and writer. He was a prominent practitioner and advocate of Tonalism.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted A Puff of Steam?

A Puff of Steam was painted by L. Birge Harrison in 1910.

Where can I see A Puff of Steam?

A Puff of Steam is held by Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

What movement is A Puff of Steam?

A Puff of Steam is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of A Puff of Steam?

Museum-quality prints of A Puff of Steam are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.